iPhone 13 Pro was an outstanding addition to Apple’s lineup in 2021. It surpassed most of the previous iPhone models, particularly the iPhone 12 series. The iPhone 13 pro stood in the limelight of its time but now, as we are living in 2025, does it still hold its position as a “Pro” mobile in Apple’s lineup?
Let’s find out.
In this fact based iPhone 13 Pro review, I’ll share my thoughts with three years of experience as an iPhone 13 Pro user.
The in-depth review covers its design, display, durability, camera efficiency, battery life, processor, and some common repairing issues.
Design & Display – iPhone 13 Pro Review
The iPhone 13 Pro design is sleek, modern and stylish even in 2025. Its outer frame is crafted with high quality surgical grade stainless steel, which gives it a premium look. The matte textured glass not only prevents its back from scratches but also offers a strong grip in hand. Its flat edges assist the user while picking up from the table.
iPhone 13 Pro’s front is covered with ceramic material, which gives it protection against water drops. That’s all; some basic points regarding the iPhone 13 Pro design need to be highlighted.
The display is the primary feature to consider while purchasing a new mobile. The iPhone 13 Pro comes with a 120 Hz refresh rate that maintains its “Pro” status even three years after its commencement. This promotion technology delivers a high quality video animation, smooth transitions and high speed gaming performance.
In the iPhone 13 Pro, you have a 20% smaller notch as compared to the iPhone 12 Pro, which I consider a positive change in iPhone 13 series.
However, a few iPhone users were expecting a completely notch-free display, which would have been the best upgrade. I would appreciate it if Apple considered this change in upcoming models.
Cons:
- Larger camera bumps can tilt or wobble the device when it is placed on the table or other flat surface. It is also difficult to clean the cameras around the bulky bumps.
- Its stainless steel body makes it heavier (204 grams) than the iPhone 12 Pro.
Durability – iPhone 13 Pro Review
iPhone 13 Pro is a durable smartphone as its outer frame is made of surgical grade stainless steel. It is water and dust resistant, having the same IP68 as the iPhone 12 Pro. It can last for 30 minutes under a maximum depth of 6 meters.
Remember. Apple claims that IP68 only works for fresh water. Impure and muddy water can damage its screen. The same case was seen last year, when a customer came to us at DrFixit to repair the iPhone 13 Pro screen damaged by dirty water drops. We repaired and returned that mobile in 60 minutes with screen repair guarantee.
Camera Performance – iPhone 13 Pro Review
iPhone 13 Pro has a triple camera setup with 12MP wide and ultra wide lenses. It was a top tier in 2021, but now in 2025 latest iPhones have surpassed it.
It has an excellent night mode function, which produces a sharp and gloomy picture.
Sensor shift stabilisation is an advanced technology that was first introduced in the iPhone 12 Pro and is now available in the iPhone 13 Pro smartphone. The sensor automatically adjusts its position to enhance the image quality and provides smoothness to the video in shaky hands.
Plus Points in 2025
- It captures sharp and vibrant photos in daylight
- Cinematic Mode and HDR recording still lead the industry
- iPhone 13 Pro is good in low light performance
Limitations
- iPhone 13 Pro delivers 3x zooming quality, which is good, but latest iPhones feature 5x optical zoom.
Processor – iPhone 13 Pro Review
iPhone 13 Pro features the best A15 Bionic processor of its time, boasting a 6-core CPU, 5-core GPU, and 15-core neural engine. It is a powerful processor to run heavy applications smoothly. Furthermore, A 15 Bionic chip delivers you a flagship level of performance in gaming, productivity, and videography.
Comparison With Newer Models
Although A15 Bionic still holds the strong position for everyday use in 2025. A17 Pro chip that was introduced in iPhone 15 Pro represents an extra advanced technology. It is 30-40% faster in benchmarks and delivers fast performance.
Battery Life – iPhone 13 Pro Review
Apple packed iPhone 13 Pro with 3095 mAh lithium-ion battery, while its predecessor iPhone 12 Pro, has 2815 mAh battery.
According to Apple’s claim, it can last for one day but my experience is not the same. My iPhone 13 Pro hardly lasts for 20 hours off screen, but 7 to 8 hours on screen.
Cons of iPhone 13 Pro Battery
- Slower charging than Android mobiles
- Heavy usage can drain its battery fast, like video gaming and HD video playback
You could also Face Battery Repair Issues
iPhone 13 Pro’s battery can perform well for a maximum of 2 years. In my experience, the 13 Pro’s battery started draining quicker after 2 to 3 hours of video playing. Then I replaced it by DrFixit. They are very elegant, economical and professional. They returned my phone within an hour with the new battery.
Who could prefer the iPhone 13 Pro?
- The one who has a low budget
- It is good for moderate users. For example, browsing, photography, text and other light applications
- iPhone 13 is a sweet spot for those who prioritise small phones. 6.1 inch size is not much larger to use.
Final Thought
iPhone 13 Pro can still be the best choice for many users. It is a budget friendly smartphone which can affordable to buy. Although it is not the latest piece in 2025 but it can compete latest models in most of the features. It represents a premium look without a premium price.
My Recommendation
If you find an iPhone 13 Pro smartphone in good condition, then you should go to grab it. If you are a heavy user and would like to enjoy the latest features, then my suggestion is to skip iPhone 13 Pro and consider a newer model like iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max.
If you have any iPhone repair issues, DrFixit . All your repair issues will be fixed on a single platform.
